Systems, methods, and computer program products for protocol conversion

Abstract

To provide improved systems, devices, products, apparatus, and / or methods for protocol conversion. [Solution] A system, method, and computer program product for protocol conversion can acquire a fixed protocol including the following fixed protocol parameters, namely the flow rate of at least one fluid to be delivered to the patient in at least one stage of infusion, and the volume of at least one fluid to be delivered to the patient in at least one stage of infusion; provide a series of prompts; receive a series of user responses in response to a series of prompts; and generate a smart protocol including the following smart protocol parameters, namely a dosing coefficient and a dosing method, based on the series of user responses and the fixed protocol, and the infusion system is configured to control the delivery of at least one fluid to the patient in infusion according to the smart protocol parameters.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Cross-reference of related applications This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 143,297, filed on 29 January 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0002] 1. Field This disclosure generally relates to fluid injection, and in some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, to conversion protocols for fluid injection.

[0003] 2.Technical considerations While it is scientifically accepted to modify infusion protocols based on patient characteristics (e.g., height, weight, age, cardiac output, blood volume, etc.), contrast agent concentration, and / or scanner parameters, for various reasons, doing so is not yet common practice. For example, many injectors only allow programming and memorizing infusion protocols using a series of flow rates and volumes for each fluid type (e.g., 80 ml with 5 ml / s contrast agent followed by 40 ml with 5 ml / s saline flush). For simplicity, this often leads to using the same fixed protocol for clinical indications regardless of variations in scanner settings that affect patient size and / or scan timing. Alternatively, technicians / radiologists may calculate protocols using spreadsheets and / or lookup tables, or make arbitrary judgments based on their experience and the patients being scanned.

[0004] An exception to these outdated clinical practices is Personalized Patient Protocol Technology (P3T®) Dosing Software, sold and distributed by Bayer HealthCare LLC. P3T® software takes patient weight and / or other parameters into account when calculating the infusion protocol. P3T® may have specific indications and clinical validations, meaning that P3T® may be limited in its use and / or may not suit the preferences of certain clinicians for contrast imaging. [Overview of the Initiative] [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] Accordingly, improved systems, devices, products, apparatus, and / or methods for protocol conversion are provided. For example, non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure may provide a set of user questions and answers for converting a standard infusion protocol, including flow rate and volume (e.g., “fixed” or “legacy” protocol), to one based on patient-specific contrast agent (e.g., iodine) delivery rate and / or contrast agent (e.g., iodine) load, contrast agent and scanner parameters (e.g., “smart” protocol). As an example, non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure may enable the conversion of an existing protocol (e.g., fixed protocol) to a smart protocol that is clinically appropriate and / or meets the needs of a particular study type and its patient population, without a) requiring a thorough understanding of contrast agent literature and / or pharmacokinetic models for contrast agent proliferation, or b) requiring the development and validation of new, dedicated algorithms for each different clinical indication. For example, instead of providing a protocol calculation algorithm (e.g., P3T®), non-limiting embodiments or aspects of this disclosure provide a system, apparatus, product, device, and / or method that enables a user to easily convert existing protocols into more scientifically correct dosing methods. Thus, when a user installs / configures a new injector, assuming the user has an existing protocol library and wishes to use “smart” protocols, the user may import existing protocols and convert each existing protocol to be compatible with the smart protocol structure.Furthermore, even after installing a smart protocol-compatible injector, if a user later decides to activate / purchase smart protocols, they can choose which existing protocols to convert to smart protocols, enabling self-service by the user, reducing the time clinical support professionals spend in the field, improving the quality of delivered infusion protocols by adjusting contrast agent dosage and timing for patients and scans, and / or improving the user's workflow by reducing manual editing of protocols and / or the use of lookup tables and calculators.

[0006] According to some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a system is provided comprising at least one processor programmed and / or configured to acquire a fixed protocol comprising the following fixed protocol parameters, namely, the flow rate of at least one fluid to be delivered to a patient in at least one stage of infusion and the volume of at least one fluid to be delivered to a patient in at least one stage of infusion, wherein the infusion system is configured to control the delivery of at least one fluid to a patient in infusion according to the fixed protocol parameters, the at least one processor programmed and / or configured to provide a set of prompts via a user interface of a computing device, receive a set of user responses in response to a set of prompts via a user interface of a computing device, and generate a smart protocol comprising the following smart protocol parameters, namely, a dosing coefficient and a dosing method, based on the set of user responses and the fixed protocol, wherein the infusion system is configured to control the delivery of at least one fluid to a patient in infusion according to the smart protocol parameters, the dosing coefficient being associated with the number of units of contrast agent to be delivered per unit of body weight, and the dosing method being associated with one of contrast agent load and contrast agent delivery rate.

[0007] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, at least one processor is further programmed and / or configured to determine, based on the parameters of the fixed protocol, whether the fixed protocol is eligible to be converted to a smart protocol.

[0008] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the computing device includes at least one of an injection system, a user device, or any combination thereof.

[0009] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, at least one processor is further programmed and / or configured to provide information associated with a change in the smart protocol generated by a user response in response to receiving one of the user responses via the user interface of the computing device.

[0010] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, at least one processor is further programmed and / or configured to receive user input associated with a smart protocol for infusion via a user interface of a computing device, calculate values ​​of smart protocol parameters of the smart protocol based on the user input, and control the infusion system to deliver at least one fluid to the patient in the infusion according to the values ​​of the smart protocol parameters of the smart protocol.

[0011] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the user input includes at least one of the patient's weight, the patient's lean body mass, the patient's body surface area, or any combination thereof.

[0012] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a set of prompts and a set of user responses thereto include prompts and corresponding user responses thereto for at least one of the following: namely, the concentration of a contrast agent; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size; an instruction on whether the smart protocol is adapted based on patient size; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is for computed tomography angiography (CTA); an instruction on whether the duration of the fixation protocol is adjusted based on the duration of a CTA scan; the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is associated with an average-sized patient; the weight of an average-sized patient; the lean body mass of an average-sized patient; the patient's target weight; the patient's target lean body mass; an instruction on the type of delivery method associated with the fixation protocol; an instruction on whether the fixation duration of the smart protocol is acceptable; or any combination thereof.

[0013] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a set of prompts and a set of user responses thereto include prompts and corresponding user responses for indicating a type of delivery method associated with a fixed protocol, the indication of a type of delivery method associated with a fixed protocol including a bolus tracking delivery method or a fixed delay delivery method.

[0014] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, at least one processor provides a prompt for contrast agent concentration and receives a user response including contrast agent concentration; provides a prompt for instructions on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size and receives a user response including instructions on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size; in response to receiving a user response including instructions that the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size, provides a prompt for instructions on whether to adapt a smart protocol based on patient size and receives a user response including instructions on whether to adapt a smart protocol based on patient size; (i) receives a user response including instructions that the fixation protocol is not adapted based on patient size, or (ii) in response to receiving a user response including instructions on whether to adapt a smart protocol based on patient size, provides a prompt for instructions on whether the fixation protocol is for computed tomography angiography (CTA) and whether the fixation protocol is for CTA (i) receiving a user response containing instructions, prompting for instructions for the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol, receiving a user response containing instructions for the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol, in response to receiving a user response containing instructions that the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol is a bolus tracking delivery method, prompting for instructions on whether the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, receiving a user response containing instructions that (i) receiving a user response containing instructions that the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol is a fixed delay delivery method, or (ii) in response to receiving a user response containing instructions that the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, prompting for the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, receiving a user response containing instructions that (i) receiving a user response containing instructions that the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol is a fixed delay delivery method, or (ii) receiving a user response containing instructions that the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan,In response to receiving a user response including the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, prompt for the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, and receive a user response including the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, (i) a user response including instructions to adapt the smart protocol based on patient size, and (ii) a user response including instructions that the fixed protocol is not for CTA, or (i) a user response including the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, or (i) a user response including instructions that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, prompt for instructions on whether the fixed protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, and receive a user response including instructions on whether the fixed protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, and in response to receiving a user response including instructions that the fixed protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, the weight and average weight of an average-sized patient (i) a user response including at least one of the average-sized patient's lean body mass and an average-sized patient's weight and an average-sized patient's lean body mass; in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixation protocol is not associated with an average-sized patient, (i) a user response including at least one of the average-sized patient's weight and an average-sized patient's lean body mass, or (ii) a user response including at least one of the patient's target weight and an average-sized patient's lean body mass, (ii) a user response including at least one of the patient's target weight and an average-sized patient's lean body mass, (ii) a user response including at least one of the patient's target weight and an average-sized patient's lean body mass, (iiiiv) a user response including at least one of the maximum volume of the fluid associated with the fixation protocol,The system is programmed and / or configured to provide a set of prompts and receive a set of user responses in response to a set of prompts by providing a prompt for the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol and receiving a user response containing the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol; in response to receiving a user response containing an instruction that the fixed protocol is for CTA, providing a prompt for an instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable and receiving a user response containing an instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable; in response to receiving a user response containing an instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, providing a prompt for the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol and receiving a user response containing the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol; and in response to receiving a user response containing an instruction that the smart protocol should not be adapted based on patient size, providing a prompt for the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol and receiving a user response containing the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol.

[0015] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the smart protocol includes an iodine dose / load (IDL) based protocol or an iodine delivery rate (IDR) based protocol.

[0016] According to some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a computer-operated method is provided, comprising the steps of: using at least one processor, obtaining a fixed protocol including the following fixed protocol parameters, namely, the flow rate of at least one fluid to be delivered to a patient in at least one stage of infusion and the volume of at least one fluid to be delivered to a patient in at least one stage of infusion, wherein the infusion system is configured to control the delivery of at least one fluid to the patient in infusion according to the fixed protocol parameters; using at least one processor, providing a set of prompts via a user interface of a computing device, and using at least one processor, receiving a set of user responses in response to the set of prompts via a user interface of a computing device; and using at least one processor, generating a smart protocol based on the set of user responses and the fixed protocol, including the following smart protocol parameters, namely, a dosing coefficient and a dosing method, wherein the infusion system is configured to control the delivery of at least one fluid to the patient in infusion according to the smart protocol parameters, wherein the dosing coefficient is associated with the number of units of contrast agent to be delivered per unit of body weight, and the dosing method is associated with one of contrast agent load and contrast agent delivery rate.

[0017] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the method further includes using at least one processor to determine whether a fixed protocol is eligible to be converted to a smart protocol based on the parameters of the fixed protocol.

[0018] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the computing device includes at least one of an injection system, a user device, or any combination thereof.

[0019] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the method further includes using at least one processor to provide information associated with a change in a smart protocol generated by the user response in response to receiving one of the user responses via a user interface of a computing device.

[0020] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the method further includes using at least one processor to receive user input associated with a smart protocol for injection via a user interface of a computing device, using at least one processor to calculate a value of a smart protocol parameter of the smart protocol based on the user input, and using at least one processor to control an infusion system to deliver at least one fluid to a patient in an infusion according to the value of the smart protocol parameter of the smart protocol.

[0021] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the user input includes at least one of the patient's body weight, the patient's lean body mass, the patient's body surface area, or any combination thereof.

[0022] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a series of prompts and a series of user responses thereto include at least one of the following: the concentration of a contrast agent, an indication of whether a fixed protocol is adapted based on patient size, an indication of whether to adapt a smart protocol based on patient size, an indication of whether a fixed protocol is for computed tomography angiography (CTA), an indication of whether the duration of a fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of a CTA scan, the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol, the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol, the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol, the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol, an indication of whether a fixed protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, the weight of an average-sized patient, the fat-free weight of an average-sized patient, the patient's target weight, the patient's target fat-free weight, an indication of the type of delivery method associated with a fixed protocol, an indication of whether the fixed duration of a smart protocol is acceptable, or any combination thereof, and corresponding user responses thereto.

[0023] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a series of prompts and a series of user responses thereto include a prompt and a corresponding user response therefor for an indication of the type of delivery method associated with a fixed protocol, and the indication of the type of delivery method associated with a fixed protocol includes a bolus tracking delivery method or a fixed delay delivery method.

[0024] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, using at least one processor to provide a set of prompts and using at least one processor to receive a set of user responses in response to a set of prompts, providing a prompt for contrast agent concentration and receiving a user response including contrast agent concentration, providing a prompt for an instruction on whether a fixed protocol is adapted based on patient size and receiving a user response including an instruction on whether a fixed protocol is adapted based on patient size, in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixed protocol is adapted based on patient size, providing a prompt for an instruction on whether to adapt a smart protocol based on patient size and receiving a user response including an instruction on whether to adapt a smart protocol based on patient size, (i) receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixed protocol is not adapted based on patient size, or (ii) in response to receiving a user response including an instruction on whether to adapt a smart protocol based on patient size, the fixed protocol is computer (i) receiving a user response indicating whether the fixation protocol is for tomographic angiography (CTA), and receiving a user response indicating whether the fixation protocol is for CTA; (ii) receiving a user response indicating whether the fixation protocol is for CTA; (iii) receiving a user response indicating whether the fixation protocol is for CTA; (iv) receiving a user response indicating whether the fixation protocol duration is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan; (iv) receiving a user response indicating whether the fixation protocol duration is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan; (iv) receiving a user response indicating whether the fixation protocol duration is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan;Receive a user response including the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol; in response to receiving a user response including the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, provide a prompt for the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol and receive a user response including the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol; receive a user response including instructions to adapt the smart protocol based on patient size, and (ii) instructions that the fixed protocol is not for CTA; or receive a user response including the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, or receive a user response including instructions that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, provide a prompt for instructions on whether the fixed protocol is associated with an average-sized patient and receive a user response including instructions on whether the fixed protocol is associated with an average-sized patient In response to receiving a user response including instructions to associate, provide a prompt for at least one of the average-sized patient weight and average-sized patient lean body mass, and receive a user response including at least one of the average-sized patient weight and average-sized patient lean body mass; In response to receiving a user response including instructions that the immobilization protocol is not associated with an average-sized patient, provide a prompt for at least one of the patient's target weight and patient's target lean body mass, and receive a user response including at least one of the patient's target weight and patient's target lean body mass; (i) In response to receiving a user response including at least one of the average-sized patient weight and average-sized patient lean body mass, or (ii) In response to receiving a user response including at least one of the patient's target weight and patient's target lean body mass, provide a prompt for the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the immobilization protocol, and receive a user response including the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the immobilization protocol.The following are further included: in response to receiving a user response including the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, prompting for the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, and receiving a user response including the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol; in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixed protocol is for CTA, prompting for an instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, and receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable; in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, prompting for the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, and receiving a user response including the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol; and in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the smart protocol should not be adapted based on patient size, prompting for the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, and receiving a user response including the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol.

[0025] According to some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a computer program product is provided which includes at least one non-temporary computer-readable medium including program instructions, and when executed by at least one processor, the program instructions cause at least one processor to acquire a fixed protocol including the following fixed protocol parameters, namely, the flow rate of at least one fluid to be delivered to a patient at at least one stage in the infusion and the volume of at least one fluid to be delivered to a patient at at least one stage in the infusion, and the infusion system is configured to control the delivery of at least one fluid to a patient in the infusion according to the fixed protocol parameters, and the program instructions cause at least one processor to provide a set of prompts via a user interface of the computing device, receive a set of user responses in response to the set of prompts via a user interface of the computing device, and generate a smart protocol including the following smart protocol parameters, namely, a dosing coefficient and a dosing method, based on the set of user responses and the fixed protocol, and the infusion system is configured to control the delivery of at least one fluid to a patient in the infusion according to the smart protocol parameters, the dosing coefficient being associated with the number of units of contrast agent to be delivered per unit of body weight, and the dosing method being associated with one of contrast agent load and contrast agent delivery rate.

[0026] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a program instruction, once executed by at least one processor, causes at least one further processor to determine, based on the parameters of the fixed protocol, whether the fixed protocol is eligible to be converted to a smart protocol.

[0027] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the computing device includes at least one of an injection system, a user device, or any combination thereof.

[0028] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a program instruction, once executed by at least one processor, causes at least one more processor to provide information associated with a change in the smart protocol generated by a user response, in response to receiving one of the user responses via the user interface of the computing device.

[0029] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a program instruction, once executed by at least one processor, causes at least one further processor to receive user input associated with a smart protocol for infusion via a user interface of a computing device, calculate values ​​for smart protocol parameters of the smart protocol based on the user input, and control the infusion system to deliver at least one fluid to the patient in the infusion according to the values ​​for the smart protocol parameters of the smart protocol.

[0030] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the user input includes at least one of the patient's weight, the patient's lean body mass, the patient's body surface area, or any combination thereof.

[0031] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a set of prompts and a set of user responses thereto include prompts and corresponding user responses thereto for at least one of the following: namely, the concentration of a contrast agent; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size; an instruction on whether the smart protocol is adapted based on patient size; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is for computed tomography angiography (CTA); an instruction on whether the duration of the fixation protocol is adjusted based on the duration of a CTA scan; the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is associated with an average-sized patient; the weight of an average-sized patient; the lean body mass of an average-sized patient; the patient's target weight; the patient's target lean body mass; an instruction on the type of delivery method associated with the fixation protocol; an instruction on whether the fixation duration of the smart protocol is acceptable; or any combination thereof.

[0032] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a set of prompts and a set of user responses thereto include prompts and corresponding user responses for indicating a type of delivery method associated with a fixed protocol, the indication of a type of delivery method associated with a fixed protocol including a bolus tracking delivery method or a fixed delay delivery method.

[0033] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, when a program instruction is executed by at least one processor, it further prompts at least one processor for a contrast agent concentration and receives a user response including a contrast agent concentration; prompts for an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size and receives a user response including an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size; in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size, it prompts for an instruction on whether to adapt a smart protocol based on patient size and receives a user response including an instruction on whether to adapt a smart protocol based on patient size; (i) receives a user response including an instruction that the fixation protocol is not adapted based on patient size, or (ii) in response to receiving a user response including an instruction on whether to adapt a smart protocol based on patient size, the fixation protocol is adapted to computed tomography angiography (CTA) (i) provide a prompt for an indication of whether it is for CTA, and receive a user response including an indication of whether the fixed protocol is for CTA, provide a prompt for an indication of the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol, and receive a user response including an indication of the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol, in response to receiving a user response including an indication that the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol is a bolus tracking delivery method, provide a prompt for an indication of whether the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, and receive a user response including an indication of whether the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, (i) receive a user response including an indication that the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol is a fixed delay delivery method, or (ii) in response to receiving a user response including an indication that the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, provide a prompt for the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol,Receive a user response including the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol; in response to receiving a user response including the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, provide a prompt for the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol and receive a user response including the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol; receive a user response including instructions to adapt the smart protocol based on patient size, and (ii) instructions that the fixed protocol is not for CTA; or receive a user response including the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, or receive a user response including instructions that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, provide a prompt for instructions on whether the fixed protocol is associated with an average-sized patient and receive a user response including instructions on whether the fixed protocol is associated with an average-sized patient In response to receiving a user response including instructions to associate, provide a prompt for at least one of the average-sized patient weight and average-sized patient lean body mass, and receive a user response including at least one of the average-sized patient weight and average-sized patient lean body mass; In response to receiving a user response including instructions that the immobilization protocol is not associated with an average-sized patient, provide a prompt for at least one of the patient's target weight and patient's target lean body mass, and receive a user response including at least one of the patient's target weight and patient's target lean body mass; (i) In response to receiving a user response including at least one of the average-sized patient weight and average-sized patient lean body mass, or (ii) In response to receiving a user response including at least one of the patient's target weight and patient's target lean body mass, provide a prompt for the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the immobilization protocol, and receive a user response including the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the immobilization protocol.In response to receiving a user response including the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, the system provides a series of prompts and receives a series of user responses in response to the series of prompts, by providing a prompt for the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol and receiving a user response including the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol; in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixed protocol is for CTA, the system provides a prompt for an instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable and receives a user response including an instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable; in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, the system provides a prompt for the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol and receives a user response including the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol; and in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the smart protocol should not be adapted based on patient size, the system provides a prompt for the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol and receives a user response including the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol.

[0034] Further non-limiting embodiments or aspects are described in the following numbered clauses.

[0035] Clause 1. The infusion system comprises at least one processor programmed and / or configured to acquire a fixed protocol comprising the following fixed protocol parameters, namely, the flow rate of at least one fluid to be delivered to the patient in at least one stage of the infusion and the volume of at least one fluid to be delivered to the patient in at least one stage of the infusion, the infusion system configured to control the delivery of at least one fluid to the patient in the infusion according to the fixed protocol parameters, the at least one processor programmed and / or configured to provide a set of prompts via a user interface of a computing device, receive a set of user responses in response to a set of prompts via a user interface of a computing device, and generate a smart protocol comprising the following smart protocol parameters, namely, a dosing coefficient and a dosing method, based on the set of user responses and the fixed protocol, the infusion system configured to control the delivery of at least one fluid to the patient in the infusion according to the smart protocol parameters, the dosing coefficient being associated with the number of units of contrast agent to be delivered per unit of body weight, and the dosing method being associated with one of contrast agent load and contrast agent delivery rate.

[0036] Clause 2. The system of Clause 1, wherein at least one processor is further programmed and / or configured to determine, based on the parameters of the fixed protocol, whether the fixed protocol is eligible to be converted to a smart protocol.

[0037] Clause 3. A computing device is a system of Clause 1 or 2, which includes at least one of the following: an injection system, a user device, or any combination thereof.

[0038] Clause 4. A system of any one of Clauses 1 to 3, wherein at least one processor is further programmed and / or configured to provide information associated with a change in the smart protocol generated by a user response in response to receiving one of the user responses via the user interface of the computing device.

[0039] Clause 5. The system of any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein at least one processor is further programmed and / or configured to receive user input associated with a smart protocol for infusion via a user interface of the computing device, calculate values ​​of smart protocol parameters of the smart protocol based on the user input, and to control the infusion system to deliver at least one fluid to the patient in infusion according to the values ​​of smart protocol parameters of the smart protocol.

[0040] Clause 6. The system of any one of Clauses 1 to 5, in which user input includes at least one of the patient's weight, the patient's lean body mass, the patient's body surface area, or any combination thereof.

[0041] Clause 7. A system of prompts and user responses to any one of Clauses 1 to 6, including prompts and corresponding user responses to at least one of the following: namely, the concentration of a contrast agent; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size; an instruction on whether the smart protocol is adapted based on patient size; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is for computed tomography angiography (CTA); an instruction on whether the duration of the fixation protocol is adjusted based on the duration of a CTA scan; the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is associated with an average-sized patient; the weight of an average-sized patient; the lean body mass of an average-sized patient; the patient's target weight; the patient's target lean body mass; an instruction on the type of delivery method associated with the fixation protocol; an instruction on whether the fixation duration of the smart protocol is acceptable; or any combination thereof.

[0042] Clause 8. A system of any one of Clauses 1 to 7, in which a series of prompts and a series of user responses thereto include prompts and corresponding user responses for instructions on the type of delivery method associated with a fixed protocol, and the instructions on the type of delivery method associated with a fixed protocol include bolus tracking delivery methods or fixed delay delivery methods.

[0043] Clause 9. At least one processor provides a prompt for contrast agent concentration and receives a user response including contrast agent concentration; provides a prompt for instructions on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size and receives a user response including instructions on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size; in response to receiving a user response including instructions that the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size, provides a prompt for instructions on whether to adapt a smart protocol based on patient size and receives a user response including instructions on whether to adapt a smart protocol based on patient size; (i) receives a user response including instructions that the fixation protocol is not adapted based on patient size; or (ii) in response to receiving a user response including instructions on whether to adapt a smart protocol based on patient size, provides a prompt for instructions on whether the fixation protocol is for computed tomography angiography (CTA) and receives a user response including instructions on whether the fixation protocol is for CTA; associates the fixation protocol (i) receiving a user response containing an instruction that the type of delivery method is a fixed-rate delivery method, or (ii) receiving a user response containing an instruction that the duration of the fixed-rate is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, (i) receiving a user response containing an instruction that the type of delivery method is a fixed-rate delivery method, or (ii) receiving a user response containing an instruction that the duration of the fixed-rate is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, (i) receiving a user response containing an instruction that the type of delivery method is a fixed-rate delivery method, or (ii) receiving a user response containing an instruction that the duration of the fixed-rate is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, (ii) receiving a user response containing an instruction that the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed-rate,Prompt for the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol, receive a user response including the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol, receive a user response including instructions to adapt the smart protocol based on patient size, and (ii) receive a user response including instructions that the fixation protocol is not for CTA, or in response to receiving a user response including instructions that the fixation duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, prompt for instructions on whether the fixation protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, receive a user response including instructions on whether the fixation protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, in response to receiving a user response including instructions that the fixation protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, prompt for at least one of the average-sized patient's weight and average-sized patient's lean body mass, Receiving a user response including at least one of the patient's weight and the average size patient's lean body mass, in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the immobilization protocol is not associated with an average size patient, providing a prompt for at least one of the patient's target weight and the patient's target lean body mass, receiving a user response including (i) a user response including at least one of the average size patient's weight and the average size patient's lean body mass, or (ii) in response to receiving a user response including at least one of the patient's target weight and the patient's target lean body mass, providing a prompt for the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the immobilization protocol, receiving a user response including the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the immobilization protocol, in response to receiving a user response including the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the immobilization protocol,A system according to any one of Clauses 1 to 8, which is programmed and / or configured to provide a series of prompts and receive a series of user responses in response to a series of prompts, by receiving a user response including a minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol; in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixed protocol is for CTA, providing a prompt for an instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable; receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable; in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, providing a prompt for the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol; receiving a user response including the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol; and in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the smart protocol should not be adapted based on patient size, providing a prompt for the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol; and receiving a user response including the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol.

[0044] Clause 10. A smart protocol is a system of any one of Clauses 1 through 9, including an iodine dose / load (IDL) based protocol or an iodine delivery rate (IDR) based protocol.

[0045] Section 11. A computer program product comprising at least one non-temporary computer-readable medium including program instructions, wherein, when executed by at least one processor, the program instructions cause at least one processor to acquire a fixed protocol comprising the following fixed protocol parameters, namely, the flow rate of at least one fluid to be delivered to a patient at at least one stage in an infusion and the volume of at least one fluid to be delivered to a patient at at least one stage in an infusion, and the infusion system is configured to control the delivery of at least one fluid to a patient in an infusion according to the fixed protocol parameters, and the program instructions cause at least one processor to provide a set of prompts via a user interface of the computing device, receive a set of user responses in response to the set of prompts via a user interface of the computing device, and generate a smart protocol comprising the following smart protocol parameters, namely, a dosing coefficient and a dosing method, based on the set of user responses and the fixed protocol, and the infusion system is configured to control the delivery of at least one fluid to a patient in an infusion according to the smart protocol parameters, wherein the dosing coefficient is associated with the number of units of contrast agent to be delivered per unit of body weight, and the dosing method is associated with one of contrast agent load and contrast agent delivery rate.

[0046] Clause 12. A computer program product of Clause 11, wherein program instructions, when executed by at least one processor, cause at least one further processor to determine, based on the parameters of the fixed protocol, whether the fixed protocol is eligible to be converted to a smart protocol.

[0047] Clause 13. A computing device is a computer program product of Clause 11 or 12, which includes at least one of an injection system, a user device, or any combination thereof.

[0048] Clause 14. A computer program product according to any one of Clauses 11 to 13, wherein program instructions, when executed by at least one processor, cause at least one further processor to provide information associated with a change in the smart protocol generated by a user response, in response to the receipt of one of the user responses via the user interface of the computing device.

[0049] Clause 15. A computer program product according to any one of Clauses 11 to 14, wherein the program instructions are executed by at least one processor, and cause at least one further processor to receive user input associated with a smart protocol for infusion via a user interface of a computing device, calculate values ​​of smart protocol parameters of the smart protocol based on the user input, and control the infusion system to deliver at least one fluid to the patient in infusion according to the values ​​of the smart protocol parameters of the smart protocol.

[0050] Clause 16. A computer program product under any one of Clauses 11 to 15 in which user input includes at least one of the patient's weight, the patient's lean body mass, the patient's body surface area, or any combination thereof.

[0051] Clause 17. A computer program product according to any one of Clauses 11 to 16, comprising prompts and corresponding user responses for at least one of the following: the concentration of a contrast agent; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size; an instruction on whether the smart protocol is adapted based on patient size; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is for computed tomography angiography (CTA); an instruction on whether the duration of the fixation protocol is adjusted based on the duration of a CTA scan; the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is associated with an average-sized patient; the weight of an average-sized patient; the lean body mass of an average-sized patient; the patient's target weight; the patient's target lean body mass; an instruction on the type of delivery method associated with the fixation protocol; an instruction on whether the fixation duration of the smart protocol is acceptable; or any combination thereof.

[0052] Clause 18. A computer program product of any one of Clauses 11 to 17, in which a series of prompts and a series of user responses thereto include prompts and corresponding user responses for instructions of a type of delivery method associated with a fixed protocol, and the instructions of a type of delivery method associated with a fixed protocol include a bolus tracking delivery method or a fixed delay delivery method.

[0053] Clause 19. When a program instruction is executed by at least one processor, it further provides to at least one processor a prompt for contrast agent concentration and receives a user response including contrast agent concentration; a prompt for instructions on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size and receives a user response including instructions on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size; in response to receiving a user response including instructions that the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size, a prompt for instructions on whether to adapt the smart protocol based on patient size and receives a user response including instructions on whether to adapt the smart protocol based on patient size; (i) receiving a user response including instructions that the fixation protocol is not adapted based on patient size, or (ii) in response to receiving a user response including instructions on whether to adapt the smart protocol based on patient size, a prompt for instructions on whether the fixation protocol is for computed tomography angiography (CTA); and the fixation protocol (i) receiving a user response including an instruction on whether the protocol is for CTA, providing a prompt for an instruction on the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol, receiving a user response including an instruction on the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol, in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol is a bolus tracking delivery method, providing a prompt for an instruction on whether the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, receiving a user response including an instruction on whether the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, (i) receiving a user response including an instruction that the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol is a fixed delay delivery method, or (ii) receiving a user response including an instruction that the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, providing a prompt for the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, receiving a user response including the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol,In response to receiving a user response including the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, prompt for the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, and receive a user response including the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, (i) a user response including instructions to adapt the smart protocol based on patient size, and (ii) a user response including instructions that the fixed protocol is not for CTA, or (i) a user response including the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, or (i) a user response including instructions that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, prompt for instructions on whether the fixed protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, and receive a user response including instructions on whether the fixed protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, and in response to receiving a user response including instructions that the fixed protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, the weight and average weight of an average-sized patient (i) a user response including at least one of the average-sized patient's lean body mass and an average-sized patient's weight and an average-sized patient's lean body mass; in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixation protocol is not associated with an average-sized patient, (i) a user response including at least one of the average-sized patient's weight and an average-sized patient's lean body mass, or (ii) a user response including at least one of the patient's target weight and an average-sized patient's lean body mass, (ii) a user response including at least one of the patient's target weight and an average-sized patient's lean body mass, (ii) a user response including at least one of the patient's target weight and an average-sized patient's lean body mass, (iiiiv) a user response including at least one of the maximum volume of the fluid associated with the fixation protocol,A computer program product according to any one of Clauses 11 to 18, which causes a series of prompts to be provided and a series of user responses to a series of prompts to be provided by providing a prompt for a minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol, receiving a user response containing the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol, providing a prompt for an instruction on whether the fixed duration of a smart protocol is acceptable in response to receiving a user response containing an instruction that the fixed protocol is for CTA, receiving a user response containing an instruction on whether the fixed duration of a smart protocol is acceptable, providing a prompt for a maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol, receiving a user response containing the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol, and receiving a user response containing the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol in response to receiving a user response containing an instruction that the smart protocol is not to be adapted based on patient size.

[0054] Clause 20. A method performed by a computer, comprising: using at least one processor to obtain a fixed protocol including the following fixed protocol parameters, namely, the flow rate of at least one fluid to be delivered to a patient in at least one stage of infusion and the volume of at least one fluid to be delivered to a patient in at least one stage of infusion, wherein the infusion system is configured to control the delivery of at least one fluid to the patient in infusion according to the fixed protocol parameters; using at least one processor to provide a set of prompts via a user interface of a computing device and using at least one processor to receive a set of user responses in response to the set of prompts via a user interface of a computing device; and using at least one processor to generate a smart protocol including the following smart protocol parameters, namely, a dosing coefficient and a dosing method, based on the set of user responses and the fixed protocol, wherein the infusion system is configured to control the delivery of at least one fluid to the patient in infusion according to the smart protocol parameters, wherein the dosing coefficient is associated with the number of units of contrast agent to be delivered per unit of body weight and the dosing method is associated with one of contrast agent load and contrast agent delivery rate.

[0055] Clause 21. A method performed by the computer of Clause 20, further comprising using at least one processor to determine, based on the parameters of the fixed protocol, whether the fixed protocol is eligible to be converted to a smart protocol.

[0056] Clause 22. A computing device is a method of execution of a computer as defined in Clause 20 or 21, which includes at least one of an injection system, a user device, or any combination thereof.

[0057] Clause 23. A method performed by a computer under any one of Clauses 20 to 22, further comprising using at least one processor to provide, in response to receiving one of a user response via the user interface of a computing device, information associated with a change in the smart protocol generated by that user response.

[0058] Clause 24. A method performed by a computer under any one of Clauses 20 to 23, further comprising using at least one processor to receive user input associated with a smart protocol for infusion via a user interface of a computing device; using at least one processor to calculate values ​​of smart protocol parameters of the smart protocol based on the user input; and using at least one processor to control the infusion system to deliver at least one fluid to the patient in infusion according to the values ​​of the smart protocol parameters of the smart protocol.

[0059] Clause 25. User input is a method performed by the computer in any one of Clauses 20 to 24, including at least one of the patient's weight, the patient's lean body mass, the patient's body surface area, or any combination thereof.

[0060] Clause 26. A computer method performed under any one of Clauses 20 to 25, comprising prompts and corresponding user responses for at least one of the following: the concentration of a contrast agent; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size; an instruction on whether the smart protocol is adapted based on patient size; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is for computed tomography angiography (CTA); an instruction on whether the duration of the fixation protocol is adjusted based on the duration of a CTA scan; the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is associated with an average-sized patient; the weight of an average-sized patient; the lean body mass of an average-sized patient; the patient's target weight; the patient's target lean body mass; an instruction on the type of delivery method associated with the fixation protocol; an instruction on whether the fixation duration of the smart protocol is acceptable; or any combination thereof.

[0061] Clause 27. A series of prompts and a series of user responses thereto include prompts and corresponding user responses for instructions of a type of delivery method associated with a fixed protocol, the instructions of a type of delivery method associated with a fixed protocol including bolus tracking delivery methods or fixed delay delivery methods, the methods performed by the computer in any one of Clauses 20 to 26.

[0062] Clause 28. Using at least one processor to provide a series of prompts and using at least one processor to receive a series of user responses in response to a series of prompts, providing a prompt for contrast agent concentration and receiving a user response including contrast agent concentration, providing a prompt for instructions on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size and receiving a user response including instructions on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size, in response to receiving a user response including instructions that the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size, providing a prompt for instructions on whether to adapt the smart protocol based on patient size and receiving a user response including instructions on whether to adapt the smart protocol based on patient size, (i) receiving a user response including instructions that the fixation protocol is not adapted based on patient size, or (ii) in response to receiving a user response including instructions on whether to adapt the smart protocol based on patient size, the fixation protocol is adapted for computed tomography angiography ( (i) Prompt for indication of whether it is for CTA, and receive a user response including an indication of whether the fixed protocol is for CTA; Prompt for indication of the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol, and receive a user response including an indication of the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol; In response to receiving a user response including an indication that the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol is a bolus tracking delivery method, provide a prompt for indication of whether the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, and receive a user response including an indication of whether the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan; (i) receive a user response including an indication that the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol is a fixed delay delivery method, or (ii) in response to receiving a user response including an indication that the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, provide a prompt for the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol.Receive a user response including the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol; in response to receiving a user response including the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, provide a prompt for the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol and receive a user response including the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol; receive a user response including instructions to adapt the smart protocol based on patient size, and (ii) instructions that the fixed protocol is not for CTA; or receive a user response including the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, or receive a user response including instructions that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, provide a prompt for instructions on whether the fixed protocol is associated with an average-sized patient and receive a user response including instructions on whether the fixed protocol is associated with an average-sized patient In response to receiving a user response including instructions to associate, provide a prompt for at least one of the average-sized patient weight and average-sized patient lean body mass, and receive a user response including at least one of the average-sized patient weight and average-sized patient lean body mass; In response to receiving a user response including instructions that the immobilization protocol is not associated with an average-sized patient, provide a prompt for at least one of the patient's target weight and patient's target lean body mass, and receive a user response including at least one of the patient's target weight and patient's target lean body mass; (i) In response to receiving a user response including at least one of the average-sized patient weight and average-sized patient lean body mass, or (ii) In response to receiving a user response including at least one of the patient's target weight and patient's target lean body mass, provide a prompt for the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the immobilization protocol, and receive a user response including the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the immobilization protocol.A method performed by a computer under any one of clauses 20 to 27, further comprising: in response to receiving a user response including the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol, providing a prompt for the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol, and receiving a user response including the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol; in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixed protocol is for CTA, providing a prompt for an instruction that the fixed duration of a smart protocol is acceptable, and receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixed duration of a smart protocol is acceptable; in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixed duration of a smart protocol is acceptable, providing a prompt for the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol, and receiving a user response including the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol; and in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the smart protocol should not be adapted based on patient size, providing a prompt for the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol, and receiving a user response including the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol.

[0063] In addition to these and other features and characteristics of this disclosure, the manner and function of the relevant structural elements, the combination of parts, and the economics of manufacture will become more apparent when considering the appended claims with reference to the following description and appended drawings, all of which form part of this specification. Similar reference numbers in various figures indicate corresponding parts. However, it should be clearly understood that the drawings are for illustrative and explanatory purposes only and are not intended as definitions of limitation. As used herein and in the claims, the singular “a,” “an,” and “the” refer to plural subjects unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0064] Further advantages and details are described in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the attached schematic diagram. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0065] [Figure 1] This figure shows non-limiting embodiments or aspects of environments in which the systems, devices, products, apparatus, and / or methods described herein may be implemented. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating non-limiting embodiments or aspects of one or more devices and / or components of one or more systems. [Figure 3] This is a flowchart of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a process for protocol conversion. [Figure 4A] This is a flowchart of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a process for protocol conversion. [Figure 4B] This is a flowchart of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a process for protocol conversion. [Figure 4C] This is a flowchart of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a process for protocol conversion. [Figure 4D] This is a flowchart of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a process for protocol conversion. [Figure 5] This is a decision tree representing a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a process for protocol conversion. [Figure 6A] This is a screenshot of a non-exclusive embodiment or aspect of the user interface for a protocol conversion process. [Figure 6B] This is a screenshot of a non-exclusive embodiment or aspect of the user interface for a protocol conversion process. [Figure 6C] This is a screenshot of a non-exclusive embodiment or aspect of the user interface for a protocol conversion process. [Figure 6D]This is a screenshot of a non-exclusive embodiment or aspect of the user interface for a protocol conversion process. [Figure 6E] This is a screenshot of a non-exclusive embodiment or aspect of the user interface for a protocol conversion process. [Figure 6F] This is a screenshot of a non-exclusive embodiment or aspect of the user interface for a protocol conversion process. [Figure 6G] This is a screenshot of a non-exclusive embodiment or aspect of the user interface for a protocol conversion process. [Figure 6H] This is a screenshot of a non-exclusive embodiment or aspect of the user interface for a protocol conversion process. [Figure 6I] This is a screenshot of a non-exclusive embodiment or aspect of the user interface for a protocol conversion process. [Figure 6J] This is a screenshot of a non-exclusive embodiment or aspect of the user interface for a protocol conversion process. [Figure 6K] This is a screenshot of a non-exclusive embodiment or aspect of the user interface for a protocol conversion process. [Figure 6L] This is a screenshot of a non-exclusive embodiment or aspect of the user interface for a protocol conversion process. [Figure 6M] This is a screenshot of a non-exclusive embodiment or aspect of the user interface for a protocol conversion process. [Figure 6N] This is a screenshot of a non-exclusive embodiment or aspect of the user interface for a protocol conversion process. [Figure 6O] This is a screenshot of a non-exclusive embodiment or aspect of the user interface for a protocol conversion process. [Figure 6P]This is a screenshot of a non-exclusive embodiment or aspect of the user interface for a protocol conversion process. [Figure 6Q] This is a screenshot of a non-exclusive embodiment or aspect of the user interface for a protocol conversion process. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0066] Please understand that this disclosure may take various alternative forms and step sequences unless expressly designated otherwise. Also understand that the specific devices and processes shown in the accompanying drawings and described in the following specification are merely illustrative and non-limiting embodiments or aspects. Therefore, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments or aspects disclosed herein are not considered limiting.

[0067] The aspects, components, elements, structures, actions, steps, functions, instructions, etc., used herein should not be construed as important or essential unless expressly stated otherwise. Furthermore, where used herein, the articles "a" and "an" are intended to include one or more items and may be used interchangeably with "one or more" and "at least one." Additionally, where used herein, the term "set" is intended to include one or more items (e.g., related items, unrelated items, combinations of related and unrelated items) and may be used interchangeably with "one or more" or "at least one." When only one item is intended, the term "one" or similar is used. Furthermore, where used herein, terms such as "has," "have," and "having" are intended to be open-ended terms. Additionally, the phrase "based on" is intended to mean "at least partially based on" unless otherwise specified.

[0068] As used herein, the term “communication” may mean the reception, acceptance, transmission, transfer, provision, etc., of data (e.g., information, signals, messages, instructions, commands, etc.). Communication between one unit (e.g., a device, a system, a component of a device or system, a combination thereof, and / or similar) and another unit means that one unit can directly or indirectly receive information from and / or transmit information to the other unit. This may mean direct or indirect connections (e.g., direct communication connections, indirect communication connections, and / or similar) that are essentially wired and / or wireless. Additionally, two units may communicate with each other even if the transmitted information is modified, processed, relayed, and / or routed between the first and second units. For example, the first unit may communicate with the second unit even if the first unit passively receives information and does not actively transmit information to the second unit. As another example, if at least one intermediate unit processes information received from a first unit and communicates the processed information to a second unit, the first unit may communicate with the second unit.

[0069] It will be apparent that the systems and / or methods described herein can be implemented in different forms of hardware, software, or combinations of hardware and software. The actual dedicated control hardware or software code used to implement these systems and / or methods is not limiting to the implementation. Therefore, the operation and behavior of the systems and / or methods are described herein without reference to specific software code, and it is understood that software and hardware can be designed to implement the systems and / or methods based on the descriptions herein.

[0070] Some non-limiting embodiments or aspects may be described herein in relation to thresholds. As used herein, satisfying a threshold can refer to values ​​such as exceeding a threshold, being greater than a threshold, being higher than a threshold, being greater than or equal to a threshold, being less than a threshold, being less than a threshold, being lower than a threshold, being less than or equal to a threshold, and being equal to a threshold.

[0071] As used herein, the term “computing device” may refer to one or more electronic devices configured to process data. In some examples, a computing device may include components necessary for receiving, processing, and outputting data, such as a processor, display, memory, input devices, and network interfaces. A computing device may also be a mobile device. Examples of mobile devices may include mobile phones (e.g., smartphones or standard mobile phones), portable computers, wearable devices (e.g., watches, glasses, lenses, clothing, etc.), PDAs, and / or other similar devices. A computing device may also be a desktop computer or other form of non-mobile computer.

[0072] As used herein, the term “mobile device” may mean one or more portable electronic devices configured to communicate with one or more networks. For example, a mobile device may include a mobile phone (e.g., a smartphone or standard mobile phone), a portable computer (e.g., a tablet computer, a laptop computer, etc.), a wearable device (e.g., a watch, glasses, lenses, clothing, etc.), a personal digital assistant (PDA), and / or other similar devices. As used herein, the terms “client device” and “user device” may mean any electronic device configured to communicate with one or more servers or remote devices and / or systems. A client device or user device may include a mobile device, network-enabled equipment (e.g., a network-enabled television, a refrigerator, a thermostat, etc.), a computer, an injection system, and / or any other device or system capable of communicating with a network.

[0073] As used herein, the terms “server” and / or “processor” refer to or may include one or more computing devices operated by or facilitating communication and processing for multiple parties in a network environment such as the Internet, although communication may be facilitated through one or more public or private network environments, and various other configurations are possible. Furthermore, multiple computing devices communicating directly or indirectly in a network environment (e.g., servers, injectors, mobile devices, etc.) may constitute a “system.” As used herein, references to “server” or “processor” may refer to the previously listed servers and / or processors listed as performing a preceding step or function, different servers and / or processors, and / or combinations of servers and / or processors. For example, as used herein and in the claims, a first server and / or first processor listed as performing a first step or function may refer to the same or different servers and / or processors listed as performing a second step or function.

[0074] As used herein, the terms “user interface” or “graphical user interface” refer to one or more generated displays, such as graphical user interfaces (GUIs), with which a user can interact directly or indirectly (e.g., through a keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, etc.).

[0075] Referring here to Figure 1, Figure 1 is a diagram of an exemplary environment 100 in which the systems, devices, methods, and / or products described herein may be implemented. As shown in Figure 1, the environment 100 may include an injection system 102, a fixed protocol database 104, a smart protocol database 106, a user device 108, and / or a communication network 110.

[0076] The injection system 102 may include one or more devices that can receive data and / or information from a user device 108 (e.g., via a communication network 110, etc.) and / or communicate data and / or information to the user device. For example, the injection system 102 may include one or more computing devices such as a computer, a portable computer (e.g., a tablet computer), a mobile device (e.g., a mobile phone, a smartphone, a watch, glasses, lenses, and / or wearable devices such as clothing, a PDA, and / or similar), a server, a group of servers, and / or other similar devices.

[0077] The injection system 102 may communicate with data storage devices, such as a fixed protocol database 104 or a smart protocol database 106, which may be local or remote to the injection system 102. The injection system 102 may receive data and / or information from the data storage device, store data and / or information in the data storage device, communicate data and / or information to the data storage device, or retrieve data and / or information stored in the data storage device.

[0078] The fixed protocol database 104 can store one or more fixed protocols, including fixed protocol parameters, and accordingly, the infusion system 102 is configured to control the delivery of at least one fluid to the patient during infusion.

[0079] The smart protocol database 106 may store one or more smart protocols, including smart protocol parameters, and accordingly, the infusion system 102 is configured to control the delivery of at least one fluid to the patient during infusion.

[0080] The user device 108 may include one or more devices that can receive data and / or information from the injection system 102 (e.g., via a communication network 110, etc.) and / or communicate data and / or information to the user device. For example, the user device 108 may include one or more computing devices such as a computer, a portable computer (e.g., a tablet computer), a mobile device (e.g., a mobile phone, a smartphone, a watch, glasses, lenses, and / or wearable devices such as clothing, a PDA, and / or similar), a server, a group of servers, and / or other similar devices.

[0081] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the fixation protocol includes (and / or consists of) a flow rate (e.g., a fixed flow rate, etc.) and a volume (e.g., a fixed volume, etc.) of at least one fluid to be delivered to the patient in at least one stage of infusion. For example, the fixation protocol may include (and / or consist of) a first fixed flow rate and a first fixed volume of a first fluid to be delivered to the patient in a first stage of infusion, and a second fixed flow rate and a second fixed volume of a second fluid to be delivered to the patient in a second stage of infusion.

[0082] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the smart protocol includes an iodine dose / load (IDL) based protocol or algorithm, or an iodine delivery rate (IDR) based protocol or algorithm. The smart protocol may include a flow rate of at least one fluid to be delivered to the patient at at least one stage of infusion, a volume of at least one fluid to be delivered to the patient at at least one stage of infusion, an iodine load, an iodine delivery rate, and / or body weight-based parameters. For example, the smart protocol may include a protocol for the delivery of a fluid volume over time, the fluid volume including at least a volume of a first fluid (e.g., fluid A), such as a contrast agent, delivered at a flow rate that changes over time and may be zero at a given time, and similarly a volume of a second fluid (e.g., fluid B), such as saline, which changes over time and may be zero at a given time.

[0083] The infusion system 102 injects, delivers, or administers a contrast solution containing a contrast agent to a patient, and in some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, it may be configured to inject or administer saline or other fluids to the patient before, during, or after administration of the contrast solution. Exemplary infusion systems or injectors are published in U.S. Patent Application No. 09 / 715330, filed November 17, 2000, as U.S. Patent Application No. 09 / 982518, filed October 18, 2001, as U.S. Patent Application No. 7556619, filed April 16, 2004, as U.S. Patent Application No. 10 / 825866, and U.S. Patent Application No. 8337456. Disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 437011, filed on 7 May 2009, U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 476513, filed on 2 June 2009, and U.S. Patent Application No. 11 / 004670, filed on 3 December 2004, each of which disclosures are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the injection system 102 may include the MEDRAD® Centargo CT Injection System. In other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the injection system 102 may include the MEDRAD® Stellant CT Injection System or the MEDRAD® Stellant FLEX CT Injection System, each of which is provided by Bayer together with the Certegra® Workstation.

[0084] The communication network 110 may include one or more wired and / or wireless networks. For example, the communication network 110 may include cellular networks (e.g., Long-Term Evolution (LTE) networks, 3G networks, 4G networks, 5G networks, Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) networks, etc.), public land mobile networks (PLMN), local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), metropolitan area networks (MANs), telephone networks (e.g., public switched telephone networks (PSTNs)), private networks, ad hoc networks, intranets, the Internet, fiber optic-based networks, cloud computing networks, short-range wireless communication networks (e.g., Bluetooth® networks, near-field communication (NFC) networks, etc.), and / or combinations of these or other types of networks.

[0085] The number and arrangement of devices and systems shown in Figure 1 are provided as an example. Additional devices and / or systems, fewer devices and / or systems, different devices and / or systems, or devices and / or systems in a different arrangement than that shown in Figure 1 may exist. Furthermore, two or more devices and / or systems shown in Figure 1 may be implemented within a single device and / or system, or a single device and / or system shown in Figure 1 may be implemented as multiple distributed devices and / or systems. Additionally or alternatively, a set of devices and / or systems in environment 100 (e.g., one or more devices or systems) may perform one or more functions that are described as being performed by another set of devices and / or systems in environment 100.

[0086] Referring now to Figure 2, Figure 2 is a diagram of exemplary components of device 200. Device 200 may correspond to one or more devices of the injection system 102 and / or user device 108 (e.g., one or more devices of the system of user device 108). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, one or more devices of the injection system 102 and / or user device 108 (e.g., one or more devices of the system of user device 108) may include at least one device 200 and / or at least one component of device 200. As shown in Figure 2, device 200 may include a bus 202, a processor 204, memory 206, a storage component 208, an input component 210, an output component 212, and a communication interface 214.

[0087] Bus 202 may include components that enable communication between components of device 200. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the processor 204 may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. For example, the processor 204 may include a processor (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), graphics processing unit (GPU), accelerator processing unit (APU), etc.), a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), and / or any processing component that can be programmed to perform a function (e.g., a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.). Memory 206 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), and / or another type of dynamic or static storage device (e.g., flash memory, magnetic memory, optical memory, etc.) that stores information and / or instructions for use by the processor 204.

[0088] The storage component 208 may store information and / or software related to the operation and use of device 200. For example, the storage component 208 may include, together with a corresponding drive, a hard disk (e.g., magnetic disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, solid-state disk, etc.), a compact disc (CD), a digital multipurpose disc (DVD), a floppy disk, a cartridge, a magnetic tape, and / or another type of non-temporary computer-readable media.

[0089] The input component 210 may include components that enable the device 200 to receive information via user input (e.g., a touchscreen display, keyboard, keypad, mouse, buttons, switches, microphone, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the input component 210 may include sensors for sensing information (e.g., a Global Positioning System (GPS) component, accelerometer, gyroscope, actuator, etc.). The output component 212 may include components that provide output information from the device 200 (e.g., a display, speaker, one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs), etc.).

[0090] The communication interface 214 may include transceiver-like components (e.g., transceivers, separate receivers and transmitters) that enable device 200 to communicate with other devices via wired connections, wireless connections, or a combination of wired and wireless connections. The communication interface 214 may also enable device 200 to receive information from and / or provide information to other devices. For example, the communication interface 214 may include Ethernet interfaces, optical interfaces, coaxial interfaces, infrared interfaces, radio frequency (RF) interfaces, Universal Serial Bus (USB) interfaces, Wi-Fi® interfaces, cellular network interfaces, and the like.

[0091] Device 200 may perform one or more processes described herein. Device 200 may perform these processes based on a processor 204 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), etc.) that executes software instructions stored in a computer-readable medium such as memory 206 and / or storage component 208. A computer-readable medium (e.g., a non-temporary computer-readable medium) is defined herein as a non-temporary memory device. A non-temporary memory device includes a memory space located within a single physical storage device or a memory space that extends across multiple physical storage devices.

[0092] Software instructions may be read into memory 206 and / or storage component 208 from another computer-readable medium or from another device via the communication interface 214. When executed, the software instructions stored in memory 206 and / or storage component 208 can cause the processor 204 to execute one or more processes described herein. Additionally or alternatively, connected circuits may be used instead of or in combination with software instructions to execute one or more processes described herein. Therefore, the embodiments or aspects described herein are not limited to any particular combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0093] The memory 206 and / or storage component 208 may include data storage or one or more data structures (e.g., a database). The device 200 may receive, store, communicate, or retrieve information stored in the data storage devices or one or more data structures in the memory 206 and / or storage component 208.

[0094] The number and arrangement of components shown in Figure 2 are provided as an example. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, device 200 may include additional components, fewer components, different components, or components in different arrangements than those shown in Figure 2. Additionally or alternatively, a set of components of device 200 (e.g., one or more components) may perform one or more functions that are described as being performed by another set of components of device 200.

[0095] Referring now to Figure 3, Figure 3 is a flowchart of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of the process 300 for protocol conversion. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, one or more of the steps of the process 300 may be performed by the injection system 102 (e.g., entirely, partially, etc.). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, one or more of the steps of the process 300 may be performed by another device or group of devices separate from or including the injection system 102, such as a user device 108 (e.g., entirely, partially, etc.).

[0096] As shown in Figure 3, in step 302, process 300 includes obtaining a fixed protocol. For example, the infusion system 102 may obtain a fixed protocol. As an example, the infusion system 102 may obtain a fixed protocol that includes the following fixed protocol parameters: namely, the flow rate of at least one fluid to be delivered to the patient at at least one stage in the infusion and the volume of at least one fluid to be delivered to the patient at at least one stage in the infusion, and the infusion system is configured to control the delivery of at least one fluid to the patient in the infusion according to the fixed protocol parameters.

[0097] As shown in Figure 3, step 304 includes process 300 determining whether the fixed protocol is eligible for conversion based on the parameters of the fixed protocol. For example, the injection system 102 may determine whether the fixed protocol is eligible for conversion based on the parameters of the fixed protocol. As an example, the injection system 102 may determine whether the fixed protocol is eligible to be converted to a smart protocol based on the parameters of the fixed protocol.

[0098] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the infusion system 102 may only allow the conversion of simple protocols that are two-step (e.g., contrast agent followed by a saline flush) so that the final result is more reliably clear and understandable to the user. For example, the infusion system 102 may require a fixed protocol to include a diagnostic step with a single contrast stage, followed by a saline stage with the same flow rate, and a single diagnostic infusion step, in order for the fixed protocol to be eligible for conversion to a smart protocol. In such an example, allowing a single contrast stage is a fairly simple extension, but the infusion system 102 may ensure that there is no reason to think that leaving contrast agent in the line for subsequent infusions is not part of the user's needs (or reducing the amount to account for undelivered contrast agent in the line), and for this reason, the saline flush stage may be required for the protocol to be eligible for conversion to a smart protocol. In such an example, the presence of a test infusion (TI) in the fixed protocol may allow the TI to be added to the smart protocol and questions about the TI method to be asked.

[0099] As shown in Figure 3, in step 306, process 300 includes providing prompts and receiving user responses to those prompts. For example, the injection system 102 may provide prompts and receive user responses to those prompts. As an example, the injection system 102 may provide a series of prompts via the user interface of a computing device (e.g., a touchscreen display) and receive a series of user responses to those prompts via the user interface of the computing device.

[0100] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the injection system 102 may, in response to receiving one of the user responses via the user interface of the computing device, provide information associated with the changes to the smart protocol generated by that user response. For example, the injection system 102 may provide information (e.g., in smaller text below the user response) intended to help inform the user about the results of the provided user response. As an example, the information may include calculated values ​​and / or variable text that depend on the provided user response and may only be displayed after the user response to the prompt has been received.

[0101] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the injection system 102 may provide prompts in combination with guidance intended to help or hint the user better understand the question.

[0102] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a set of prompts and a set of user responses thereto include prompts and corresponding user responses thereto for at least one of the following: namely, the concentration of a contrast agent; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on patient size; an instruction on whether the smart protocol is adapted based on patient size; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is for computed tomography angiography (CTA); an instruction on whether the duration of the fixation protocol is adjusted based on the duration of a CTA scan; the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is associated with an average-sized patient; the weight of an average-sized patient; the lean body mass of an average-sized patient; the patient's target weight; the patient's target lean body mass; an instruction on the type of delivery method associated with the fixation protocol; an instruction on whether the fixation duration of the smart protocol is acceptable; or any combination thereof.

[0103] Further details regarding step 306 of process 300 are provided below with reference to Figures 4A to 4D.

[0104] As shown in Figure 3, in step 308, process 300 includes generating a smart protocol based on user responses and fixed protocol parameters. For example, the infusion system 102 may generate a smart protocol based on user responses and fixed protocol parameters. As an example, the infusion system 102 may generate a smart protocol based on user responses and fixed protocols that includes the following smart protocol parameters, thereby the infusion system is configured to control the delivery of at least one fluid to the patient in the infusion, i.e., a dosing coefficient and a dosing method, where the dosing coefficient is associated with the number of units of contrast agent to be delivered per unit of body weight, and the dosing method is associated with one of contrast agent load and contrast agent delivery rate. In such an example, the infusion system 102 may store the smart protocol including the smart protocol parameters in the smart protocol database 106. For example, during management time (e.g., outside of examination time), the smart protocol including the smart protocol parameters may be stored in the smart protocol database 106.

[0105] See also Figures 6A–6Q, which are screenshots 600 of non-limiting embodiments or aspects of a user interface for a protocol conversion process. For example, the infusion system 102 may provide and receive a series of prompts and corresponding user responses via the user interface, and / or provide via the user interface an overview of iodine administration of the generated smart protocol, such as user responses to prompts and smart protocol parameter values ​​(e.g., iodine loading and iodine delivery rate based on associated flow rate, volume, and selected contrast concentration, etc.). The amount of visible administration information may depend on the user responses, the ultimately generated smart protocol or algorithm, and / or fixed protocol parameter values.

[0106] In such examples, a non-weight-based smart protocol could simply display a single line of data including flow rate, volume, iodine load, and iodine delivery rate.

[0107] In such an example, if the user defines a protocol to be adapted based on patient size, the dosing table may provide data rows for various weight values. The number of rows may vary. Minimum and maximum flow rate and volume response values ​​can contribute to “duplicate” data inputs for flow rate and volume within lower and upper weight ranges. If “duplicate” row data exists, the duplicate row data does not need to be shown multiple times. Any weight value below / above the shown minimum / maximum sample data may result in the same flow rate and volume values. When the protocol is adapted based on patient size, the user may choose to use weight or lean body mass as the expected input value. This choice may be indicated in the header and units of the dosing table, and the units of the dosing table may reflect the system configuration in terms of kg and lb.

[0108] In such examples, as shown by Figures 4A–4D and 5, the majority of the process path leads to an IDL protocol or algorithm selected to generate a smart protocol, which is a decision tree 500 of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of the process for protocol conversion. When the user response indicates a desire to adjust the infusion duration based on the estimated scan duration, an IDR protocol or algorithm may be selected to generate a smart protocol, and as a result, multiple dose tables may be generated between several exemplary infusion durations. For example, the process path including questions Q32, Q33, Q34, and Q35 in Figure 5 (and / or steps 430 to 438 in Figure 4D) may lead only to an IDR protocol or algorithm selected to generate a smart protocol, and the process path including questions Q52 and Q53 in Figure 5 (and / or steps 414 and 416 in Figure 4B) may lead only to an IDL protocol or algorithm selected to generate a smart protocol. In other words, a user response of "no" prompting Q3 may set the protocol or algorithm to IDL, a user response of "no" prompting Q31 may set the protocol or algorithm to IDL, and / or a user response of "yes" to Q31 may set the protocol or algorithm to IDR.

[0109] The injection system 102 may preserve certain parameters or characteristics of a fixed protocol that has been converted to an iodine-based protocol. For example, pressure limits used in a fixed protocol remain relevant to the iodine-based protocol because conversion to the iodine-based protocol does not alter the injection pressure management objectives. As an example, timed reminders on a fixed protocol may provide guidance to the user on when actions related to injection-related scans should be taken. The converted protocol is generated based on user responses regarding the protocol's objectives and intents, and may preserve the timing of the fixed protocol, meaning that timed reminders may still be relevant and should be preserved. In the case of an IDR algorithm, automatic adjustments made by the injection system 102 to the injection protocol may maintain the injection duration.

[0110] Table 1 below provides a mapping of which prompts or questions in Figure 5 set values ​​for which parameters in the IDL and IDR protocols or algorithms. The conversion process allows for forward / reverse navigation, so parameters can be set, including route backtracking. Configuration parameters that are not ultimately used may not affect the conversion or the resulting protocol.

[0111] [Table 1]

[0112] In this way, non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure provide for converting a fixed protocol into a smart protocol that adapts to the concentration of the contrast agent used, the patient's weight and / or lean body mass, and / or the infusion duration or desired iodine load. For example, the infusion system 102 may generate one of the following: an iodine dose / load (IDL) based protocol or algorithm and an iodine delivery rate (IDR) based protocol or algorithm.

[0113] The infusion system 102 can calculate parameters for IDL-based protocols or algorithms as described below herein, where the rate is specified by R, the volume by V, and the duration by D. Subscripts indicate the type of injected medium, where C is for contrast agents and S is for saline. Superscripts indicate the type of infusion calculation where TI is for test infusions and D is for diagnostic infusions. For example, V c D This represents the volume at the contrast-enhanced stage in the diagnostic calculation.

[0114] Iodine load (IL) in IDL-based smart protocols or algorithms can be calculated based on a fixed dose or by multiplying the patient's body weight or lean body mass by an appropriate body weight-based dose coefficient. For example, IL can be calculated by the following equations (1) to (3). If weight input = none IL(gI)=fixed dose(gI) (1) If weight input = weight IL(gI) = Dosage based on body weight (gI / kg) * Body weight (kg) (2) (3) When weight input = lean body mass IL(gI) = Dose based on LBW (gI / kg LBW) * Lean body mass (kg LBW)

[0115] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, other dosing criteria, such as body surface area (BSA), may be used to calculate IL. (No weight input) Not When (i.e., when IL varies depending on the patient size) the calculated iodine load is lower than the minimum iodine load, a “Applicable Minimum Iodine Load Limit” notification is provided, and the minimum iodine load value is used instead. In other words, if (round (IL) < minimum iodine load), then IL(gI) = minimum iodine load (gI). If the calculated iodine load exceeds the maximum iodine load, a “Applicable Maximum Iodine Load Limit” notification is provided, and the maximum iodine load is used instead. In other words, if (round (IL) > maximum iodine load), then IL(gI) = maximum iodine load (gI).

[0116] The flow rate and volume of an IDL-based smart protocol or algorithm may depend on the delivery method parameter. When the delivery method is set to a fixed flow rate, the flow rate is simply set to the fixed flow rate parameter value. Since the flow rate is a fixed value (e.g., R(ml / s) = fixed flow rate(ml / s)), no limitations apply to this parameter. The calculated injection volume for the contrast stage is based on the IL and contrast agent concentration calculated by the following equation (4).

number

[0117] When the delivery method is set to a fixed duration, the flow rate can be calculated based on the calculated IL, contrast agent concentration, and fixed duration using the following formula (5).

number

[0118] When the calculated flow rate falls below the minimum flow rate, a “Minimum Flow Limit Applicable” notification may be provided, and the flow rate may be increased up to the minimum flow rate. If the minimum flow rate value is 0, a minimum deliverable flow rate of 0.1 is used for comparison. In other words, if (Round (R) < Minimum Flow Rate), then R(ml / s) = Minimum Flow Rate (ml / s).

[0119] If the calculated flow rate exceeds the maximum flow rate, a "Maximum Flow Rate Limit Applicable" notification is provided, and the flow rate is reduced to the maximum flow rate. In other words, if (Round (R) > Maximum Flow Rate), then R(ml / s) = Maximum Flow Rate (ml / s).

[0120] The calculated flow rate can be used to calculate the flow rate-based iodine load using the following equation (6).

number

[0121] When the flow-based iodine load is below the minimum iodine load, a "Minimum-Maximum Iodine Load Flow Conflict" notification is provided, and initially, the calculated iodine load is used to calculate the flow rate according to the following equation (7). When (Round (flow-based IL) < minimum iodine load) [Number]

[0122] When the flow-based iodine load exceeds the maximum iodine load, a "Minimum-Maximum Iodine Load Flow Conflict" notification is provided, and initially, the calculated iodine load is used to calculate the flow rate according to the following equation (8). When (Round (flow-based IL) > maximum iodine load) [Number]

[0123] Once the flow rate is calculated, the volume of the contrast stage of the diagnostic injection is V C D (ml) = R (ml / s) * fixed duration (s), which is calculated using the flow rate and the fixed duration. Finally, the volume of the saline solution for the diagnostic injection is V S D (ml) is simply set to the saline flush volume parameter value by the saline flush volume (ml).

[0124] The test injection volume may be based on duration or volume. For example, when (test injection delivery method == injection duration), V S TI (ml) = R * test injection duration (s), otherwise V S TI (ml) = test injection volume (ml).

[0125] The infusion system 102 can calculate parameters for IDR-based protocols or algorithms as described below herein, where the rate is specified by R, the volume by V, and the duration by D. Subscripts indicate the type of injected medium, where C is for contrast agents and S is for saline. Superscripts indicate the type of infusion calculation where TI is for test infusions and D is for diagnostic infusions. For example, V c D This represents the volume at the contrast-enhanced stage in the diagnostic calculation.

[0126] The IL for an IDR-based smart protocol or algorithm can be calculated based on the IDR multiplied by the infusion duration. The IDR(gI / s) value depends on the type of weight input processing and can be calculated by the following equations (9) to (11). If weight input is not specified (9) IL(gI) = Fixed IDR(gI / s) * Infusion duration (s) If weight input = weight (10) IL(gI) = Body weight-based IDR(gI / s / kg) * Body weight (kg) * Infusion duration (s) If weight input = lean body mass (LBW) (11) IL(gI) = LBW-based IDR (gI / s / kg LBW) * Lean body mass (kg LBW) * Infusion duration (s)

[0127] If the calculated iodine load is lower than the minimum iodine load, a "minimum iodine load limit, IDR increased" notification is provided, and the minimum iodine load value is used instead. In other words, if (round(IL) < minimum iodine load), then IL(gI) = minimum iodine load(gI).

[0128] If the calculated iodine load exceeds the maximum iodine load, a "Maximum iodine load limit, IDR reduction" notification is provided, and the maximum iodine load is used instead. In other words, if (Round (IL) > Maximum iodine load), then IL(gI) = Maximum iodine load (gI).

[0129] The flow rate for diagnostic injection is calculated by dividing the iodine load, calculated using the following formula (12), by the contrast agent concentration and injection duration.

number

[0130] If the calculated flow rate falls below the minimum flow rate, a "Minimum Flow Rate Limit, IDR Increased" notification is issued, and the flow rate is increased to the minimum flow rate. If the minimum flow rate value is 0, a minimum deliverable flow rate of 0.1 is used for comparison. In other words, if (Round (R) < Minimum Flow Rate), then R(ml / s) = Minimum Flow Rate (ml / s).

[0131] If the calculated flow rate exceeds the maximum flow rate, a "Maximum Flow Rate Limit, IDR Reduction" notification is issued, and the flow rate is reduced to the maximum flow rate. In other words, if (Round (R) > Maximum Flow Rate), then R(ml / s) = Maximum Flow Rate (ml / s).

[0132] The calculated flow rate is used to calculate the flow rate-based iodine load using the following equation (13).

number

[0133] If the flow-based iodine load falls below the minimum iodine load, a "minimum-maximum iodine load flow competition" notification is provided, and the initially calculated iodine load is used to calculate the flow rate using the following equation (14). (In the case of round (flow rate-based IL) < minimum iodine load)

number

[0134] If the flow-based iodine load exceeds the maximum iodine load, a "minimum-maximum iodine load flow competition" notification is provided, and the initially calculated iodine load is used to calculate the flow rate using the following equation (15). (In the case of round (flow rate-based IL) < maximum iodine load)

number

[0135] Once the flow rate is calculated, the volume of the contrast-enhanced stage of the diagnostic injection is V C D (ml) is calculated using the flow rate and infusion duration, given by R(ml / s) * infusion duration (s). Finally, the volume of saline for the diagnostic infusion is V S D (ml) = The value of the saline flush volume parameter is simply set to the saline flush volume parameter value.

[0136] The test injection volume may be based on duration or volume. For example, if (test injection delivery method == injection duration), V S TI (ml) = R * duration of test injection (s), otherwise V S TI (ml) = Test injection volume (ml).

[0137] As shown in Figure 3, in step 310, process 300 includes receiving user input for infusion. For example, the infusion system 102 may receive user input associated with a smart protocol for infusion. As an example, the infusion system 102 may receive user input associated with a smart protocol for infusion via the user interface of a computing device. In such an example, the infusion system 102 may receive a selection of a smart protocol from multiple available smart protocols and / or fixed protocols via the user interface of a computing device. In such an example, the infusion system 102 may receive, for each patient, a selection of a smart protocol for that patient at the time of examination for that patient.

[0138] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, user input may include at least one of the patient's weight, the patient's lean body mass, the patient's body surface area (BSA), or any combination thereof.

[0139] As shown in Figure 3, in step 312, process 300 includes calculating the values ​​of smart protocol parameters of the smart protocol based on user input. For example, the injection system 102 may calculate the values ​​of smart protocol parameters of the smart protocol based on user input.

[0140] As shown in Figure 3, in step 314, process 300 includes controlling the infusion system to deliver fluid to the patient according to the smart protocol parameters of the smart protocol. For example, infusion system 102 may control its injector to deliver fluid to the patient according to the smart protocol parameters of the smart protocol. As an example, infusion system 102 may control the infusion system to deliver at least one fluid to the patient during infusion according to the value of the smart protocol parameters of the smart protocol.

[0141] Referring here to Figures 4A to 4D, Figures 4A to 4D show flowcharts of non-limiting embodiments or aspects of process 400 for protocol conversion. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, one or more steps of process 400 may be performed by the injection system 102 (e.g., entirely, partially, etc.). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, one or more steps of process 300 may be performed by another device or group of devices separate from or including the injection system 102, such as user device 108 (e.g., entirely, partially, etc.).

[0142] As shown in Figure 4A, in step 402, process 400 includes providing a prompt for the contrast agent concentration and receiving a user response including the contrast agent concentration. For example, the injection system 102 may provide a prompt for the contrast agent concentration and receive a user response including the contrast agent concentration.

[0143] As shown in Figure 4A, step 404 includes process 400 providing a prompt for instructions on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on the patient's size, receiving a user response including instructions on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on the patient's size, and controlling the process to proceed directly to one of steps 406 and 408 of process 400 based on the instructions on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on the patient's size. For example, the infusion system 102 may provide a prompt for instructions on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on the patient's size, receive a user response including instructions on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on the patient's size, and control the process to proceed directly to one of steps 406 and 408 of process 400 based on the user response including instructions on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on the patient's size.

[0144] In such an example, upon receiving a user response that includes instructions that the fixation protocol be adapted based on the patient's size, the infusion system 102 may control the process to proceed directly to step 406 of process 400.

[0145] In such an example, upon receiving a user response that includes an instruction that the fixation protocol is not adapted based on the patient's size, the infusion system 102 may control the process to proceed directly to step 408 of process 400.

[0146] As shown in Figure 4A, step 406 includes process 400 providing a prompt for instructions on whether to adapt the smart protocol based on patient size in response to receiving a user response including instructions that the fixed protocol will be adapted based on patient size, and receiving a user response including instructions on whether to adapt the smart protocol based on patient size. For example, in response to a user response including instructions that the fixed protocol will be adapted based on patient size, the infusion system 102 may provide a prompt for instructions on whether to adapt the smart protocol based on patient size, and receive a user response including instructions on whether to adapt the smart protocol based on patient size.

[0147] As shown in Figure 4A, step 408 includes process 400 receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixation protocol is not tailored based on patient size, or (ii) a user response including an instruction to tailor the smart protocol based on patient size, and prompting for an instruction to tailor the fixation protocol to computed tomography angiography (CTA); receiving a user response including an instruction to tailor the fixation protocol to CTA; and controlling process 400 to proceed directly to any of steps 410, 418, and 428 based on the user response including an instruction to tailor the smart protocol based on patient size, and the user response including an instruction to tailor the fixation protocol to CTA. For example, the infusion system 102 may, in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixation protocol is not tailored based on the patient size, or (ii) a user response including an instruction to tailor the smart protocol based on the patient size, provide a prompt for an instruction to tailor the fixation protocol to computed tomography angiography (CTA), and, based on the user response including an instruction to tailor the smart protocol based on the patient size, and the user response including an instruction to tailor the fixation protocol to CTA, it may be controlled to proceed directly to any of steps 410, 418, and 428 of process 400.

[0148] In such cases, in response to receiving a user response that includes (i) an instruction not to adapt the smart protocol based on the patient's size, and (ii) an instruction that the fixed protocol is not for CTA, the infusion system 102 may control the process to proceed directly to step 410 of process 400.

[0149] In such an example, in response to receiving a user response that includes (i) an instruction to adapt the smart protocol based on the patient's size, and (ii) a user response that includes an instruction that the fixed protocol is not for CTA, the infusion system 102 may control the process to proceed directly to step 418 of process 400.

[0150] In such an example, upon receiving a user response that includes an instruction that the fixed protocol is for CTA, the injection system 102 may control the process to proceed directly to step 428 of process 400.

[0151] As shown in Figure 4B, step 410 includes process 400 providing a prompt for an instruction for the type of delivery method associated with a fixed protocol, receiving a user response containing an instruction for the type of delivery method associated with a fixed protocol, and controlling the process to proceed directly to one of steps 412 and 414 of process 400 based on the user response containing an instruction for the type of delivery method associated with a fixed protocol. For example, injection system 102 may provide a prompt for an instruction for the type of delivery method associated with a fixed protocol, receive a user response containing an instruction for the type of delivery method associated with a fixed protocol, and control the process to proceed directly to one of steps 412 and 414 of process 400 based on the user response containing an instruction for the type of delivery method associated with a fixed protocol.

[0152] In such an example, in response to a user response that includes an instruction that the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol is a bolus tracking delivery method, the injection system 102 may control the process to proceed directly to step 412 of process 400.

[0153] In such an example, in response to a user response that includes an instruction that the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol is a fixed-delay delivery method, the injection system 102 may control the process to proceed directly to step 414 of process 400.

[0154] As shown in Figure 4B, step 412 includes process 400 responding to the receipt of a user response including an instruction that the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol is a bolus tracking delivery method, prompting for an instruction on whether the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, receiving a user response including an instruction on whether the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, and controlling the process to either proceed directly to step 414 of process 400 or terminate process 400 based on the user response including an instruction on whether the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan. For example, the injection system 102, in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol is a bolus tracking delivery method, may prompt for an instruction on whether the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, and upon receiving a user response including an instruction on whether the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, may control the process to either proceed directly to step 414 of process 400 or terminate process 400.

[0155] In such an example, in response to a user response that includes an instruction that the duration of the fixed protocol should not be adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, the injection system 102 may control the process to terminate the process 400.

[0156] In such an example, in response to a user response that includes an instruction that the duration of the fixed protocol be adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, the injection system 102 may control the process to proceed directly to step 414 of process 400.

[0157] As shown in Figure 4B, step 414 includes process 400 receiving a user response that includes an instruction that (i) the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol is a fixed-delay delivery method, or (ii) the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, prompting for the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, and receiving a user response that includes the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol. For example, injection system 102 may receive a user response that includes an instruction that (i) the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol is a fixed-delay delivery method, or (ii) the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, prompting for the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, and receiving a user response that includes the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol.

[0158] As shown in Figure 4B, in step 416, process 400 includes providing a prompt for a minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol and receiving a user response including the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol. For example, injection system 102 may provide a prompt for a minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol and receive a user response including the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol.

[0159] In such an example, in response to receiving a user response that includes a minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol, the injection system 102 may control the process to terminate the process 400.

[0160] As shown in Figure 4C, step 418 includes process 400 providing a prompt for an instruction on whether the fixed protocol is associated with an average-sized patient in response to receiving a user response in step 408 that (i) an instruction to adapt the smart protocol based on patient size and (ii) an instruction that the fixed protocol is not for CTA, or in step 416 that (i) a user response that includes a minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, or in step 428 that (i) an instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, receiving a user response that includes an instruction on whether the fixed protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, and controlling process 400 to proceed directly to one of steps 420 and 422 based on the instruction that the fixed protocol is associated with an average-sized patient. For example, the infusion system 102 may, in step 408, receive a user response including (i) an instruction to adapt the smart protocol based on the patient size and (ii) an instruction that the fixation protocol is not for CTA, or in step 416, receive a user response including (i) a minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol, or in step 428, receive a user response including (i) an instruction that the fixation duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, prompt for an instruction to indicate whether the fixation protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, receive a user response including an instruction to indicate whether the fixation protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, and based on the instruction that the fixation protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, proceed directly to one of steps 420 and 422 of process 400.

[0161] In such an example, the infusion system 102 may control the process to proceed directly to step 420 of process 400 in response to receiving a user response that includes an instruction that the fixation protocol is associated with an average-sized patient.

[0162] In such an example, the infusion system 102 may, in response to receiving a user response that includes an instruction that the fixation protocol is not associated with an average-sized patient, control the process to proceed directly to step 422 of process 400.

[0163] As shown in Figure 4C, step 420 includes process 400 providing a prompt for at least one of the average-sized patient's weight and average-sized patient's lean body mass in response to receiving a user response including instructions that the fixation protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, and receiving a user response including at least one of the average-sized patient's weight and average-sized patient's lean body mass. For example, infusion system 102 may provide a prompt for at least one of the average-sized patient's weight and average-sized patient's lean body mass in response to receiving a user response including instructions that the fixation protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, and receive a user response including at least one of the average-sized patient's weight and average-sized patient's lean body mass.

[0164] As shown in Figure 4C, in step 422, process 400 includes providing prompts for at least one of the patient's target weight and target lean body mass in response to receiving a user response that includes instructions that the fixation protocol is not associated with an average-sized patient, and receiving a user response that includes at least one of the patient's target weight and target lean body mass. For example, infusion system 102 may provide prompts for at least one of the patient's target weight and target lean body mass in response to receiving a user response that includes instructions that the fixation protocol is not associated with an average-sized patient, and receive a user response that includes at least one of the patient's target weight and target lean body mass.

[0165] As shown in Figure 4C, step 424 includes process 400 providing a prompt for the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol in response to receiving a user response that includes (i) at least one of the average-sized patient's body weight and the average-sized patient's lean body mass, or (ii) at least one of the patient's target body weight and the patient's target lean body mass, and receiving a user response that includes the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol. For example, the infusion system 102 may provide a prompt for the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol in response to receiving a user response that includes (i) at least one of the average-sized patient's body weight and the average-sized patient's lean body mass, or (ii) at least one of the patient's target body weight and the patient's target lean body mass, and receive a user response that includes the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol.

[0166] As shown in Figure 4C, in step 426, process 400 includes providing a prompt for the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol and receiving a user response including the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol. For example, injection system 102 may provide a prompt for the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol and receive a user response including the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol.

[0167] In such an example, the injection system 102 may, in response to receiving a user response in step 426 that includes the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol, control the process to proceed directly to step 410 of process 400.

[0168] As shown in Figure 4D, in step 428, process 400 includes, in response to receiving a user response in step 408 that includes an instruction that the fixed protocol is for CTA, providing a prompt for an instruction on whether the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, receiving a user response that includes an instruction on whether the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, and controlling the process to proceed directly to one of steps 410, 418, and 430 of process 400 based on the user response that includes an instruction on whether the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable. For example, injection system 102 may, in step 408, provide a prompt for an instruction on whether the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable in response to receiving a user response that includes an instruction that the fixed protocol is for CTA, receive a user response that includes an instruction on whether the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, and control the process to proceed directly to one of steps 410, 418, and 430 of process 400 based on the user response that includes an instruction on whether the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable.

[0169] In such cases, in response to receiving a user response that includes (i) an instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is unacceptable, and (ii) an instruction that the smart protocol should not be adapted based on the patient's size, the infusion system 102 may control the process to proceed directly to step 410 of process 400.

[0170] In such cases, in response to receiving a user response that includes (i) an instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is unacceptable, and (ii) an instruction to adapt the smart protocol based on the patient's size, the infusion system 102 may control the process to proceed directly to step 418 of process 400.

[0171] In such an example, upon receiving a user response that includes an instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, the injection system 102 may control the process to proceed directly to step 430 of process 400.

[0172] As shown in Figure 4D, step 430 includes process 400 providing a prompt for the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, and receiving a user response including the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol. For example, injection system 102 may provide a prompt for the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol in response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, and receive a user response including the maximum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol.

[0173] As shown in Figure 4D, in step 432, process 400 includes providing a prompt for a minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol and receiving a user response including the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol. For example, injection system 102 may provide a prompt for a minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol and receive a user response including the minimum flow rate of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol.

[0174] As shown in Figure 4D, step 434 includes controlling the process to proceed directly to one of steps 418 and 436 of process 400 based on a user response that includes an instruction on whether to adapt the smart protocol based on the patient size received in step 406. For example, the infusion system 102 may control the process to proceed directly to one of steps 418 and 436 of process 400 based on a user response that includes an instruction on whether to adapt the smart protocol based on the patient size received in step 406.

[0175] In such an example, the infusion system 102 may control the process to proceed directly to step 418 of process 400 based on the user response received in step 406, which includes instructions for adapting the smart protocol based on the patient's size.

[0176] In such an example, the infusion system 102 may control the process to proceed directly to step 436 of process 400 based on a user response received in step 406, which includes an instruction not to adapt the smart protocol based on the patient's size.

[0177] As shown in Figure 4D, in step 436, process 400 includes providing a prompt for the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol in response to receiving a user response that includes an instruction not to adapt the smart protocol based on the patient size, and receiving a user response that includes the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol. For example, the infusion system 102 may provide a prompt for the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol and receive a user response that includes the maximum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol.

[0178] As shown in Figure 4D, in step 438, process 400 includes providing a prompt for the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol and receiving a user response including the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol. For example, injection system 102 may provide a prompt for the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol and receive a user response including the minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol.

[0179] In such an example, the injection system 102 may control the process to proceed directly to step 410 of process 400 in response to receiving a user response that includes a minimum volume of at least one fluid associated with a fixed protocol.

[0180] While embodiments or aspects have been described in detail for illustrative and explanatory purposes, it should be understood that such details are for that purpose only, and that embodiments or aspects are not limited to those disclosed, but rather are intended to cover modifications and equivalent configurations within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, it should be understood that, wherever possible, one or more features of any embodiment or aspect can be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment or aspect. In fact, any of these features can be combined in ways not specifically described in the claims and / or disclosed herein. Each dependent claim listed below may depend directly on only one claim, but the disclosure of possible implementations includes each dependent claim combined with all other claims in the claim set. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0181] 100 Environment 102 Injection System 104 Fixed Protocol Database 106 Smart Protocol Database 108 User Devices 110 Communication Network 200 devices Bus 202 204 Processors 206 memory 208 Memory Components 210 Input Components 212 Output Components 214 Communication Interface 300 processes 400 processes 500 decision trees Screenshot of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of the user interface for the 600 protocol conversion process.

Claims

1. It is a system, The infusion system comprises at least one processor programmed and / or configured to acquire a fixed protocol including the following fixed protocol parameters, namely, the flow rate of at least one fluid to be delivered to the patient in at least one stage of the infusion and the volume of the at least one fluid to be delivered to the patient in at least one stage of the infusion, and the infusion system is configured to control the delivery of the at least one fluid to the patient in the infusion according to the fixed protocol parameters. The at least one processor provides a series of prompts via the user interface of the computing device, and receives a series of user responses in response to the series of prompts via the user interface of the computing device. The system is programmed and / or configured to generate a smart protocol comprising the following smart protocol parameters, namely a dosing coefficient and a dosing method, based on the series of user responses and the fixed protocol, wherein the infusion system is configured to control the delivery of the at least one fluid to the patient in the infusion according to the smart protocol parameters, the dosing coefficient being associated with the number of units of contrast agent to be delivered per unit of body weight, and the dosing method being associated with one of contrast agent load and contrast agent delivery rate.

2. The aforementioned at least one processor is The system according to claim 1, further programmed and / or configured to determine whether the fixed protocol is eligible to be converted to a smart protocol based on the parameters of the fixed protocol.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the computing device includes at least one of the injection system, the user device, or any combination thereof.

4. The aforementioned at least one processor is The system according to claim 1, further programmed and / or configured to provide information associated with the change of the smart protocol generated by the user response in response to receiving one of the user responses via the user interface of the computing device.

5. The aforementioned at least one processor is The user interface of the computing device receives user input associated with the smart protocol for injection, Based on the user input, the values ​​of the smart protocol parameters of the smart protocol are calculated. The system according to claim 1, further programmed and / or configured to control the infusion system to deliver the at least one fluid to the patient in the infusion, according to the values ​​of the smart protocol parameters of the smart protocol.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein the user input includes at least one of the patient's weight, the patient's lean body mass, the patient's body surface area, or any combination thereof.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein the series of prompts and user responses thereto include prompts and corresponding user responses thereto for at least one of the following: the concentration of the contrast agent; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on the patient's size; an instruction on whether the smart protocol is adapted based on the patient's size; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is for computed tomography angiography (CTA); an instruction on whether the duration of the fixation protocol is adjusted based on the duration of a CTA scan; the maximum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the minimum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the maximum volume of the at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the minimum volume of the at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is associated with an average-sized patient; the weight of the average-sized patient; the lean body mass of the average-sized patient; the patient's target weight; the patient's target lean body mass; an instruction on the type of delivery method associated with the fixation protocol; an instruction on whether the fixation duration of the smart protocol is acceptable; or any combination thereof.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein the series of prompts and the series of user responses thereto include prompts and corresponding user responses thereto for the instruction of the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol, the instruction of the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol includes a bolus tracking delivery method or a fixed delay delivery method.

9. The aforementioned at least one processor is To provide a prompt for the concentration of the contrast agent and to receive a user response including the concentration of the contrast agent, Providing a prompt for instructions on whether the immobilization protocol is adapted based on the patient's size, and receiving a user response including the instructions on whether the immobilization protocol is adapted based on the patient's size, In response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixed protocol is adapted based on the patient's size, provide a prompt for an instruction on whether to adapt the smart protocol based on the patient's size, and receive a user response including the instruction on whether to adapt the smart protocol based on the patient's size. (i) receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixation protocol is not suitable based on the patient's size, or (ii) receiving a user response including an instruction to suit the smart protocol based on the patient's size, providing a prompt for an instruction to suit whether the fixation protocol is for computed tomography angiography (CTA), and receiving a user response including an instruction to suit whether the fixation protocol is for CTA, Providing prompts for instructions for the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol, and receiving a user response containing the instructions for the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol, In response to receiving the user response including the instruction that the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol is a bolus tracking delivery method, provide a prompt for an instruction on whether the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, and receive the user response including the instruction on whether the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, (i) receiving a user response including an instruction that the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol is a fixed-delay delivery method, or (ii) receiving a user response including an instruction that the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, providing a prompt for the maximum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, and receiving a user response including the maximum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol. In response to receiving the user response including the maximum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, provide a prompt for the minimum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, and receive the user response including the minimum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol. (i) the user response including instructions for adapting the smart protocol based on the patient's size, and (ii) the user response including instructions that the immobilization protocol is not for CTA, or (i) the user response including the minimum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the immobilization protocol, or (i) the user response including instructions that the immobilization duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, to provide a prompt for instructions on whether the immobilization protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, and to receive a user response including instructions on whether the immobilization protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, In response to receiving the user response which includes the instruction that the fixation protocol is associated with the average-sized patient, prompt for at least one of the average-sized patient's weight and the average-sized patient's lean body mass, and receive a user response which includes at least one of the average-sized patient's weight and the average-sized patient's lean body mass, In response to receiving the user response which includes the instruction that the fixation protocol is not associated with the average-sized patient, prompt for at least one of the patient's target weight and the patient's target lean body mass, and receive a user response which includes at least one of the patient's target weight and the patient's target lean body mass, (i) the user response including at least one of the average-sized patient's weight and the average-sized patient's lean body mass, or (ii) in response to receiving the user response including at least one of the patient's target weight and the patient's target lean body mass, provide a prompt for the maximum volume of the at least one fluid associated with the immobilization protocol and receive a user response including the maximum volume of the at least one fluid associated with the immobilization protocol. In response to receiving the user response including the maximum volume of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, a prompt is provided for the minimum volume of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, and the user response including the minimum volume of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol is received. In response to receiving the user response including the instruction that the fixed protocol is for CTA, provide a prompt for an instruction on whether the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, and receive the user response including the instruction on whether the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable. In response to receiving the user response including the instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, provide the prompt for the maximum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, receive the user response including the maximum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, and In response to receiving the user response which includes the instruction not to adapt the smart protocol based on the patient's size, provide a prompt for the maximum volume of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, and receive the user response which includes the maximum volume of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol. The system according to claim 1, which is programmed and / or configured to provide the set of prompts and to receive the set of user responses in response to the set of prompts.

10. The system according to claim 1, wherein the smart protocol includes an iodine dose / load (IDL) based protocol or an iodine delivery rate (IDR) based protocol.

11. A computer program product comprising at least one non-temporary computer-readable medium containing program instructions, wherein when executed by at least one processor, the program instructions are transmitted to the at least one processor. A fixed protocol is obtained that includes the following fixed protocol parameters, namely the flow rate of at least one fluid to be delivered to the patient in at least one stage of the infusion and the volume of the at least one fluid to be delivered to the patient in at least one stage of the infusion, and the infusion system is configured to control the delivery of the at least one fluid to the patient in the infusion according to the fixed protocol parameters. The program instructions cause the at least one processor to provide a series of prompts via the user interface of the computing device, and to receive a series of user responses in response to the series of prompts via the user interface of the computing device. A computer program product that generates a smart protocol including the following smart protocol parameters, namely a dosing coefficient and a dosing method, based on the series of user responses and the fixed protocol, wherein the infusion system is configured to control the delivery of the at least one fluid to the patient in the infusion according to the smart protocol parameters, the dosing coefficient being associated with the number of units of contrast agent to be delivered per unit of body weight, and the dosing method being associated with one of contrast agent load and contrast agent delivery rate.

12. When the program instruction is executed by the at least one processor, it further sends to the at least one processor: A computer program product according to claim 11, which determines whether the fixed protocol is eligible to be converted to a smart protocol based on the parameters of the fixed protocol.

13. The computer program product according to claim 11, wherein the computing device includes at least one of the injection system, the user device, or any combination thereof.

14. When the program instruction is executed by the at least one processor, it further sends to the at least one processor: The computer program product according to claim 11, wherein, in response to receiving one of the user responses via the user interface of the computing device, it causes the device to provide information associated with the change of the smart protocol generated by the user response.

15. When the program instruction is executed by the at least one processor, it further sends to the at least one processor: The user interface of the computing device receives user input associated with the smart protocol for injection. Based on the user input, the values ​​of the smart protocol parameters of the smart protocol are calculated. The computer program product according to claim 11, which causes the infusion system to control the infusion system to deliver the at least one fluid to the patient in the infusion according to the values ​​of the smart protocol parameters of the smart protocol.

16. The computer program product according to claim 15, wherein the user input includes at least one of the patient's weight, the patient's lean body mass, the patient's body surface area, or any combination thereof.

17. The computer program product according to claim 11, wherein the series of prompts and the series of user responses thereto include prompts and corresponding user responses thereto for at least one of the following: the concentration of the contrast agent; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is adapted based on the patient's size; an instruction on whether the smart protocol is adapted based on the patient's size; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is for computed tomography angiography (CTA); an instruction on whether the duration of the fixation protocol is adjusted based on the duration of a CTA scan; the maximum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the minimum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the maximum volume of the at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; the minimum volume of the at least one fluid associated with the fixation protocol; an instruction on whether the fixation protocol is associated with an average-sized patient; the weight of the average-sized patient; the lean body mass of the average-sized patient; the patient's target weight; the patient's target lean body mass; an instruction on the type of delivery method associated with the fixation protocol; an instruction on whether the fixation duration of the smart protocol is acceptable; or any combination thereof.

18. The computer program product according to claim 17, wherein the series of prompts and the series of user responses thereto include prompts and corresponding user responses thereto for the instructions of the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol, the instructions of the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol include a bolus tracking delivery method or a fixed delay delivery method.

19. When the program instruction is executed by the at least one processor, it further sends to the at least one processor: To provide a prompt for the concentration of the contrast agent and to receive a user response including the concentration of the contrast agent, Providing a prompt for instructions on whether the immobilization protocol is adapted based on the patient's size, and receiving a user response including the instructions on whether the immobilization protocol is adapted based on the patient's size, In response to receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixed protocol is adapted based on the patient's size, provide a prompt for an instruction on whether to adapt the smart protocol based on the patient's size, and receive a user response including the instruction on whether to adapt the smart protocol based on the patient's size. (i) receiving a user response including an instruction that the fixation protocol is not suitable based on the patient's size, or (ii) receiving a user response including an instruction to suit the smart protocol based on the patient's size, providing a prompt for an instruction to suit whether the fixation protocol is for computed tomography angiography (CTA), and receiving a user response including an instruction to suit whether the fixation protocol is for CTA, Providing prompts for instructions for the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol, and receiving a user response containing the instructions for the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol, In response to receiving the user response including the instruction that the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol is a bolus tracking delivery method, provide a prompt for an instruction on whether the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, and receive the user response including the instruction on whether the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, (i) receiving a user response including an instruction that the type of delivery method associated with the fixed protocol is a fixed-delay delivery method, or (ii) receiving a user response including an instruction that the duration of the fixed protocol is adjusted based on the duration of the CTA scan, providing a prompt for the maximum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, and receiving a user response including the maximum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol. In response to receiving the user response including the maximum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, provide a prompt for the minimum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, and receive the user response including the minimum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol. (i) the user response including instructions for adapting the smart protocol based on the patient's size, and (ii) the user response including instructions that the immobilization protocol is not for CTA, or (i) the user response including the minimum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the immobilization protocol, or (i) the user response including instructions that the immobilization duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, to provide a prompt for instructions on whether the immobilization protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, and to receive a user response including instructions on whether the immobilization protocol is associated with an average-sized patient, In response to receiving the user response which includes the instruction that the fixation protocol is associated with the average-sized patient, prompt for at least one of the average-sized patient's weight and the average-sized patient's lean body mass, and receive a user response which includes at least one of the average-sized patient's weight and the average-sized patient's lean body mass, In response to receiving the user response which includes the instruction that the fixation protocol is not associated with the average-sized patient, prompt for at least one of the patient's target weight and the patient's target lean body mass, and receive a user response which includes at least one of the patient's target weight and the patient's target lean body mass, (i) the user response including at least one of the average-sized patient's weight and the average-sized patient's lean body mass, or (ii) in response to receiving the user response including at least one of the patient's target weight and the patient's target lean body mass, provide a prompt for the maximum volume of the at least one fluid associated with the immobilization protocol and receive a user response including the maximum volume of the at least one fluid associated with the immobilization protocol. In response to receiving the user response including the maximum volume of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, a prompt is provided for the minimum volume of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, and the user response including the minimum volume of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol is received. In response to receiving the user response including the instruction that the fixed protocol is for CTA, provide a prompt for an instruction on whether the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, and receive the user response including the instruction on whether the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable. In response to receiving the user response including the instruction that the fixed duration of the smart protocol is acceptable, provide the prompt for the maximum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, receive the user response including the maximum flow rate of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, and In response to receiving the user response which includes the instruction not to adapt the smart protocol based on the patient's size, provide a prompt for the maximum volume of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol, and receive the user response which includes the maximum volume of the at least one fluid associated with the fixed protocol. The computer program product according to claim 11, further comprising providing the series of prompts and receiving the series of user responses in response to the series of prompts.

20. A step of obtaining a fixed protocol using at least one processor, including the following fixed protocol parameters, namely, the flow rate of at least one fluid to be delivered to the patient in at least one stage of the infusion and the volume of the at least one fluid to be delivered to the patient in at least one stage of the infusion, wherein the infusion system is configured to control the delivery of the at least one fluid to the patient in the infusion according to the fixed protocol parameters; The steps include: using the at least one processor to provide a series of prompts via the user interface of a computing device, and using the at least one processor to receive a series of user responses in response to the series of prompts via the user interface of the computing device; A step of generating a smart protocol, including the following smart protocol parameters, namely a dosing coefficient and a dosing method, using at least one processor, based on a series of user responses and a fixed protocol, wherein the infusion system is configured to control the delivery of the at least one fluid to the patient in the infusion according to the smart protocol parameters, the dosing coefficient being associated with the number of units of contrast agent to be delivered per unit of body weight, and the dosing method being associated with one of contrast agent load and contrast agent delivery rate. The way a computer performs actions, including [specific actions].

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